My Sabbatical Year and Thoughts on Retirement
Hey friends, What’s better Today?
This past year, I’ve taken a step back from my 33-year journey of running my own leadership training and coaching business. While I wasn’t quite ready to “retire,” I was curious about what God had in store for my next chapter. So, I decided to embark on a sabbatical and filled my time writing a novel that’s been brewing in my mind since I was a teenager.
My professional world has shifted as well. Organisations are more focused on entertaining, quick-fix events rather than substantive, meaningful change. Real transformation is tough and often painful—not something you can package with instant results. Thus, many of us who believe in the long, arduous journey of real change either sell out or get out.
So, I thought, why not take a sabbatical to write that novel, John? But it also led me to ponder—Is this what retirement feels like? What happens when you lose the desire to continue the same business and even the enjoyment of your once-loved activities? It’s like my purpose has been taken away.
Retirement isn’t just about money; it’s about identity and purpose. Have you ever thought about what life would look like after the 9-to-5? Work shapes who we are, as Marianne Janack beautifully articulates. Stepping into retirement can feel like entering uncharted waters—not just financially, but in finding and redefining your purpose.
What will give you fulfilment? How will you navigate this new chapter? Let’s talk about it! Share your fears, hopes, and plans. Whether retirement is near or far, your story might just inspire someone else.
Can't wait to hear from you!
John Michael
🙌✨ #Retirement #LifeAfterWork #FindingPurpose